SELECTED CONTENTS

¹Technology of Agriculture Industry, Agriculture Technology Faculty, Udayana University, Bali, Indonesia, ²Present address: Agriculture Technology Faculty, Udayana University, Bukit Jimbaran, South Kuta, Badung, Bali (80361), Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.32

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Abstract: The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of variations in filler types, the addition of fillers and their interactions on the characteristics of bio-plastic composites from modified cassava starch-glucomannan, and determine the type and addition of fillers that produce the best bio-plastic composite characteristics of modified cassava starch-glucomannan. This research applied a randomized block design with factorial experiments using two factors consisted of the type of filler (ZnO, CMC and chitosan) and the addition of fillers (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 g), with the total of 18 combination treatments. Each combination treatment was grouped into 4 based on the processing time of making bio-plastic composites. The variables observed were tensile strength, elongation at break, Young’s modulus, swelling, degradation time of bio-plastic composites, surface profiles using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and functional groups using FTIR spectrometers. The results showed that the type, the addition of fillers and their interactions had a very significant effect on tensile strength, elongation, Young’s modulus, swelling, and degradation time of bio-plastic composites from modified glucomannan cassava starch. Bio-plastic composites from modified cassava-glucomannan starch using ZnO with the addition of 0.6-1.0 g had the best characteristics compared to others with tensile strength values ??reaching 2012.45-2022.23 MPa, elongation at break 8.12-8.65 %, Young’s modulus 23.265.32 - 24,904.31 MPa, swelling 9.52-9.72 %, and degradation time of 6.25 days. Transverse surface profiles showed a smooth wave surface, there were not any holes or pores and visible fibers, while longitudinal surface profiles showed a fewer holes or pores and more smooth surface with not too high waves. In addition, these bio-plastic composites contained functional groups (O-H) and (C-H).

¹Field Crops Directorate, National Agricultural Research Center (NARC), P.O. Box 19831, Baqa’, Jordan. ²Department of Plant Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), P.O. Box 3030, 22110, Irbid, Jordan.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.33

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Abstract: This study was conducted to examine the effect of storage temperature and duration on viability and in vitro germination of pollen grains of seven pistachio cultivars. Pollens were stored at room temperature (24±2 ^oC), refrigerator (4 ^oC) and freezer (-5 ^oC) for 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks. Pollen viability was estimated by using staining methods including tetrazolium test (TTC), iodine and potassium iodine (IKI) and safranin solutions, and using an in vitro pollen germination. The results showed that at all storage methods and durations, pollen viability and in vitro pollen germination were significantly the highest for Batouri and Ashouri cultivars and the lowest for Marawhi and Elemi cultivars. The highest pollen viability as estimated by safranin staining was attained when pollens were stored under freezer condition. However, pollen viability by TTC was the lowest at room temperature storage. In addition, in vitro pollen germination and viability significantly decreased as storage duration increased. This study revealed no differences between in vitro germination percentages for refrigerated and freezer stored pollen up to 2 weeks. Meanwhile, in vitro germination of room-stored pollen was gradually decreased when storage duration increased. At the end of storage period, pollen viability was reduced slightly under freezer conditions, whereas, the reduction in viability was the highest for refrigerated and room-stored pollen with no differences between them. This study showed a significant interaction effect of cultivar x storage temperature x storage duration on pollen viability but not for in vitro pollen germination.

¹Doctoral Program in Agricultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Udayana University. ²Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Udayana University, Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.34

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Abstract: Fresh-cut mango is a very popular product commonly consumed due to its health and safety benefits to the community. The cutting results in increased respiration, ethylene production, oxidation, and browning processes which tends to shorten its life. Edible coating of aloe gel (Ecogel) serves as an additive matrix to extend the life of fresh-cut mango with the incorporation of antioxidant, acidulant, and antimicrobial additives. The edible coating ability is strongly influenced by molecular structure, size, and chemical constituents.This study, therefore, aimed to determine the influence of incorporation nano-additive material and its concentration in ecogel to extend the shelf life of the mango. The factorial complete randomized design was used to determine the effect of citric, ascorbic, and potassium sorbate acid using a concentration of 0.15, 0.3, and 0.45 %. Citric acid, ascorbic acid and potassium sorbate at a concentration of 0.15 %, was best for formulation of Ecogel. The quality of fresh-cut fruit coated with Ecogel was acceptable at a temperature of 7 ± 1 ?C until day 6. Therefore, Ecogel prolongs the shelf-life of fresh-cut mango.

Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.35

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Abstract: The effects of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and selenium (Se) on postharvest quality and the vase life of Narcissus tazetta were investigated. A factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design with 1-MCP at concentrations of 0, 0.5, and 1 µL L^-1 and Se at 0, 1 and 2 mg L^-1 with 3 replicates (4 cut flowers per each replicate) was conducted. The results showed that treatment of cut flowers with 1-MCP and Se significantly increased the vase life, water uptake and relative fresh weight of cut N. tazetta cut flowers. Fresh weight of flower increased from 0.58 (control) to 0.92 g using 1 µL L^-1 1-MCP treatment. Total soluble solids (TSS) and total soluble sugar of flowers treated with all the levels of 1-MCP and Se significantly decreased as compared to control. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of treated cut flowers with 1-MCP and Se were significantly increased in comparison to the control. The highest (13.41 days) vase live was obtained in 1 µL L^-1 1-MCP treatment. The study revealed that application of 1-MCP and Se delayed senescence symptoms resulting extended vase life and postharvest quality of N. tazetta cut flowers.

¹Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soils, Egerton University. P.O. Box: 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya. ²Department of Crop Sciences, College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), University of Rwanda, P.O. Box 210 Musanze, Rwanda.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.36

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Abstract: Bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum Smith is the most severe potato disease in Rwanda because there is no known pesticide for it and cultural control methods seem almost impossible to implement. Therefore, use of plant extracts with antibacterial activities which are locally available, economically affordable and environmental friendly could be an alternative in the management of the disease. This research focused on in vitro screening of the antibacterial activity of methanol, water and chloroform extracts of ten local plant materials against the pathogen. From this screening, methanol and water extracts of three promising plant species, i.e., tobacco, wild marigold and garlic were also used for determination of minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). The results showed higher inhibition zone of methanol extracts (16.85 mm) against bacteria followed by water (14.42 mm) and chloroform (14.19 mm) extracts. All ten plant extracts inhibited the growth of the pathogen. Higher antibacterial activity was found in tobacco, wild marigold and garlic extracts (19.61, 18.56, and 18.3 mm inhibition zones, respectively). Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of methanol extracts from tobacco and wild marigold was 6.25 mg mL^-1 whereas, garlic methanol extract was 12.5 mg mL^-1. Furthermore, MIC of water extract was 12.5 mg/mL^-1 in all three plant species. The findings revealed that tobacco, garlic and wild marigold extracts are the best in the control of potato bacterial wilt. Moreover, methanol extracts are the most efficient in management of potato bacterial wilt in comparison to water and chloroform extracts.

Department of Horticulture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202. Bangladesh.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.37

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Abstract: Strawberry is a promising small fruit crop in Bangladesh. Farmers are giving priority to grow this short duration fruit in their field due to early fruiting and high market demand. The main obstacle is shortage of quality planting materials during planting time. Moreover, saplings produced from tissue culture techniques are very costly, as a result many of interested growers are unable to cultivate strawberry. Therefore, this study was undertaken to find out the impact of indole butyric acid (IBA) on root induction in strawberry daughter plants. Four concentrations of IBA (0, 100, 200 and 300 ppm) were applied at the base of newly born daughter plants of strawberry and inserted them in a polybag (10 cm×5 cm) with loamy soil for rooting. Thereafter, rooting performance of daughter plants was checked at 10, 15, 20 and 25 days after application (DAA) of IBA. The experiment was conducted following randomized complete block design with three replications. Results showed that different concentrations of IBA exhibited differently on root and shoot development of newly grown strawberry saplings. All the studied parameters were significantly influenced by IBA solutions except root length of saplings. Among the concentrations, 100 and 200 ppm IBA showed successful results in respect of all traits studied while 300 ppm IBA performed better in fresh weight of leaves of new saplings. However, it can be concluded that grower can use 100 and/or 200 ppm IBA solution at the base of newly grown daughter plants to expedite rooting and shoot development of strawberry saplings.

¹Department of Microbiology, Centre for Research & PG Studies, Indian Academy Degree College - Autonomous, Bengaluru-560043, Karnataka, India. ²Department of Biology, Prayoga Education Research Centre (PERC), Bengaluru-560085, Karnataka, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.38

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Abstract: Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) is the second most cultivated edible mushrooms worldwide after Agaricus bisporus. has more economic, ecological values and medicinal properties. Huge amounts of ligno-cellulosic agricultural crop residues by-products rich in organic compounds are annually generated. This study was conducted to compare effects of different agro residues on growth and bioconversion efficiency of oyster mushroom. P. ostreatus was cultivated on different treatment substrates viz., corn sheath + corn cob + coir pith (T1), paddy straw + ragi straw (T2) and sugarcane bagasse (T3) supplemented with 10 % wheat bran. Parameters such as days, spawn run, primordial formation, harvest days, total yield and biological efficiency were evaluated. The best substrate was found to be T2 (paddy straw + ragi straw) in terms of spawn run (28 days), primordial formation (30 days), average number of fruiting bodies (108±1.3), stem length (7 cm) and cap diameter (9.5±0.085 cm). Total yield of P. ostreatus on different treatment substrates T1, T2 and T3 was found as 507±5 g, 317.7±3.1 g and 761±7.5 g, respectively. The biological efficiency of P. ostreatus was found high in T1 (92.08±0.89 ^%) followed by T3 (87.39±0.85 ^%) and T1 (72.37±0.7 ^%).

¹Rajiv Gandhi Chair, SKUAST-K, Srinagar. ²Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal. ³The Glocal University, U.P., ⁴Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Rangreth, Srinagar. ⁵Krishi Vigyan Kendra Anantnag, SKUAT-K.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.39

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Abstract: Jammu and Kashmir, the northern most state is one of the most important apple producing states of India. The pesticide trade has increased tremendously in the region which affects both environment and human health. This paper presents and estimated the cost of illness resulting from pesticide-related acute health symptoms in the apple growing region of Jammu and Kashmir. Apple growers reported as many as 15 serious issues and symptoms associated with the use of pesticides in the region. The study employs Cobb-Douglas linear production function, Cost of Illness method and Contingent valuation method through Willingness to Pay for analysing the requisite data. The study reveals that pesticide sprays and chemical fertilisers contribute 17.25 and 24.23 per cent to the overall apple production in the region. There is a decrease of 7.72 per cent cost of illness if the respondent who applies pesticides is a male and similarly, age of the respondent is having 0.35 per cent impact and incurs huge cost for the illness due to exposure. Similarly, household willingness to pay (WTP) for safer pesticides states that highly qualified respondents in the area are ready to pay 63.59 percent more than the less qualified/illiterate respondents.

¹Department of Plant Pathology, College of Horticulture, UHS Campus, GKVK Post, Bengaluru - 560065, Karnataka, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.40

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Abstract: Temple tree (Plumeria rubra) is a cosmopolitan ornamental flowering and an avenue tree. Generally, Plumeria sp. is affected by several diseases, among them rust caused by Coleosporium plumeriae was found infecting the temple trees in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India with the severity of 80-100 per cent in the early June till end of August 2016-17. Initially, numerous orange coloured rusty pustules were seen on abaxial leaf and these pustules covered the entire leaf causing inward rolling of leaves, necrosis, senescence and finally leaf abscission. Microscopic observation of the rust pustules revealed the presence of golden pale yellow coloured uredospores that varied from globose to ellipsoidal in shape, ranging from 20-40 x 16-28 ?m in size, borne on erumpent uredinia and no other spore stages were observed. Molecular identification of this pathogen (Indian isolate) through ITS rDNA region amplification, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed 99 % sequence homology with the China isolate (Accession no. KF879087.1). ITS rDNA region partial sequence of the pathogen was deposited in NCBI, GenBank with accession no. MH656772.

¹Department of Zoology, Raiganj University, Raiganj-733134, Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, India. ²Immunopharmacology and Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Gour Banga, Malda-732103, West Bengal, India. ³Microbiology and Computational Biology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Raiganj University, Raiganj-733134, Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, India. ⁴Entomology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Gour Banga, Malda-732103, West Bengal, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.41

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Abstract: Five different popular mango cultivars (Fazli, Guti, Lakhanbhog, Gopalbhog and Langra) of Malda, West Bengal, India were screened for the mango mealy bug (Drosicha mangiferae G.) population in panicle and trunk throughout the pest infestation period during 2018 and 2019. The average pest number at peak time (13 Standard Meteorological Week or SMW) of infestation indicated that maximum pest number of 132.57 and 28.05 was noted in the 30 cm branch of inflorescence and 10 cm² area of the trunk in Fazli cultivar. Whereas, minimum number of 20.27/ 30 cm branch of inflorescence and 6.36 in the same area of trunk was found in Langra. Study of various biological parameters of mealy bugs also indicated the the order of infestation of the five cultivars as Fazli>Guti>Lakhanbhog>Gopalbhog>Langra. Analysis of various biochemical parameters have and nitrogen. Significant negative correlation was observed between pest number and alkaloid, flavonoid, phenol, tannin, ascorbic acid as well as crude fibre suggesting their pivotal role in low pest incidence. By considering the adjusted R² in stepwise multiple regression model, it was noticed that tannin was the most significant factor (39.2 %) followed by nitrogen (15.5 %), flavonoid (11.4 %), phenol (7.7 %), ascorbic acid (6.9 %) and protein (6.2 %) to influence pest number. Factors like moisture (1.00 %), sugar (2.7 %), antioxidant (1.0 %) had minor contributions. Therefore, it can be concluded that a combination of factors influence pest density and a single factor is not adequate to affect the pest population. The study is helpful in understanding the host preference of mealy bug.

¹Department of Humanities, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Bhubaneswar, India. ²Department of Business Administration, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, India

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.42

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Abstract: India’s horticulture production has shown manifold increase in the past two decades and the country is ranking second in the world only next to China. Keeping in mind, the increasing trend in horticulture production and individual product, the purpose of the current paper was to study the short run and long run relation between economic growth and horticulture production as a whole. The study used secondary data on horticulture production and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 2001 to 2018. The econometric tools used were Granger Causality Test, Johansen Cointegration test, VECM model and OLS. Johansen Cointegration Test showed that there is long run relation between the variables; The Vector Error Correction model and its probability output showed that there is no significant short run relation between variables except one, that is when horticulture production is considered as independent variable and GDP as dependent variable. Granger Casualty Test showed absence of cause and effect relation (both way) between the three variables. Out of all variables, OLS showed a significant relation only between GDP and horticulture production.The study revealed that horticulture production shares a linear relationship with GDP both as dependent and as independent variable, but the association does not satisfy Granger Causality Test, indicating that there was no cause and effect relation between the variables. Given that agriculture is the backbone of Indian economy, the absence of short run relation between horticulture and food grain production and food grain with GDP is a matter of concern.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Punjab – 152026.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.43

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Abstract: The quality of agricultural production and their modulation by fertilizer application has increasingly received attention. However, the importance of magnesium (Mg) as an essential plant nutrient is well established, but its application has not been studied extensively specially in cherry tomato. The experiment was carried out during two successive seasons of 2018 and 2019 in polyhouse under ventilated condition to evaluate the effect of different Mg levels on growth, yield and fruit quality of cherry tomato grown under drip irrigation system. Foliar application of magnesium sulphate was done at three levels (0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 %) on three cultivars viz., Punjab Red Cherry, Punjab Kesar Cherry and Punjab Sona Cherry during vegetative stage at different time interval (at the first fortnight of January, February and March). The vegetative growth, yield and important quality traits of different cherry tomato cultivars, including TSS, titratable acidity were determined. Punjab Kesar Cherry cultivar showed 19 % higher total soluble solids (TSS) than Punjab Sona Cherry and 10 % higher than Punjab Red Cherry and also showed titrable acidity 20 and 9 % higher than the cultivar Punjab Red Cherry and Punjab Sona Cherry, respectively. The TSS and titratable acidity in tomato fruits increased with Mg application rates. A significantly higher yield was recorded with Punjab Sona Cherry (6.96 kg/m²) as compared to Punjab Red Cherry (5.63 kg/m²) and followed by Punjab Kesar cherry (5.29 kg/m²) with the foliar application of 0.4 % magnesium sulphate.

¹Department of Botany, Rajasthan University, Jaipur -302004, India. ²BNF and Microbial Genomics Laboratory, Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur-342033.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2000.v22i03.44

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Abstract: Prosopis cineraria commonly called ‘khejri’ is highly versatile tree supporting wildlife, human beings and livestock in Indian desert. It is used as food, fodder, fixes atmospheric nitrogen, stabilizes sand dunes and its fruits are consumed fresh as well as after drying. Pods were sampled at 5 developmental stages viz., S1(3.5 cm), S2 (5.7 cm), S3 (9.2 cm), S4 (15.3 cm), S5 (17.4 cm, naturally dried pods on tree) to evaluate the changes in phytonutrients(total sugars, reducing sugars, protein and total phenol) and antioxidant activity in terms of DPPH radical scavenging activity, nitric oxide scavenging and ferric reducing power assay during fruit development from S1 to S5. Total soluble sugar content increased from S1 stage (47.1 mg^-1f.wt.) to S5 stage (64.28 mg^-1f.wt.), reducing sugar and sucrose content also increased from 20.65 mg^-1f.wt to 29.45 mg^-1f.wt and 18.75 to 33.84 mg^-1f.wt, respectively. Free amino acid and protein content increased during the development of the pods from very young to ripened stage. Whereas, total phenol content (TPC) was high at S1 stage (229.59 mg^-1f.wt.) as compared to S5 stage (55.24 mg^-1 g.f.wt.) DPPH radical scavenging activity decreases from 78.46 to 22.72 % during fruit development but ferric reducing activity increased with maturity of the pods. These studies are significant in evaluating phytochemical and antioxidant activities of the fruits that are consumed in every season by the local rural people. This study can help in prioritization of these local underutilised fruits as they are rich in some of the phytonutrients and antioxidants.

Horticultural Research Institute and Plant Pathology Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center (ARC), Egypt.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.45

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Abstract: This study was conducted during 2017 and 2018 at Kaha Vegetable Research Farm, Horticulture Research Institute, Qalyubia Governorate to develop promising hybrids of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) for yield and fruit quality characters under fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum) infection stress in Egypt using diallel mating design. The pathogenicity and host range experiment revealed that Fusarium oxysporum isolate No.3 was the most virulent one to the susceptible cucumber cultivar “Beta alpha” and cucumber was the only infected host. The prevalence of the non-additive variance suggested heterosis breeding approach is effective way for improvement of these traits. Most of the traits exhibited significant hybrid vigor for some of crosses based on the better-parent. The analysis of variance showed that all the studied traits were highly significant indicating that both of the parents and hybrids had high variability. Significant general and specific combining ability variances were obtained in all studied traits implying that both additive and non-additive gene effects control genetic expression of these traits. The study showed that lines P2, P4 and P5 had significant positive GCA effects for total yield trait under fusarium wilt stress. Thus, these parents could be successfully used in future breeding programs. Among all the crosses, P1×P3, P1×P4, P1×P5, P2×P4 and P2×P5 exhibited significant SCA effects for both early and total yield characters under fusarium wilt stress. So, these hybrids can be used in future breeding program. The genotypes Kaha1×Dokky2 and Kaha1×Kaha2 followed by Kaha2×Dokky3 as well as Kaha1×Dokky3 were the most resistant genotypes decreasing disease severity correlated with increase in total phenol contents and activities of polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and catalase as compared to susceptible genotypes, i.e., Dokky3, Kaha1×Dokky1 and Dokky1. The scavenging activity was higher in susceptible genotypes compared with resistant genotypes. Furthermore, there was a high correlation between the total phenol content and the scavenging activity. Results also revealed a noticeable significant correlation between disease severity, total yield and early yield traits. Cluster analysis classified the fifteen genotypes into five clusters with different number of genotypes. Further improvement of fruit yield could be possible through the hybridization and selection in transgressive segregation.

¹Assistant Professor, Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, P.O.B. 641003, Tamil Nadu, India. ²Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, P.O.B.621712, Tamil Nadu, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.46

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Abstract: This study was aimed to develop the mini-tractor drawn turmeric harvester cum conveyor to dig out and collect the turmeric rhizome. The physical properties of freshly harvested turmeric mother and finger rhizomes (Erode variety) relevant to the development of mini-tractor operated turmeric harvester were determined. Length, width and thickness were 7.90, 2.48, 2.32 cm, respectively. The moisture content of finger and mother rhizomes was found to be 386.85, and 231.56 % (db). The roundness of fresh finger and mother rhizomes were 0.3065 and 0.5244, respectively. Sphericity of the fresh finger and mother rhizomes recorded 0.3052 and 0.4312 respectively. The cylindricity of fresh finger and mother rhizomes was found to be 0.7604 and 0.6428, respectively. The bulk density of finger and mother rhizomes was 523.85 and 532.25 kg/m³, respectively. Based on these physical properties, the equipment was developed with overall dimensions of the equipment of 1000×1000×600 mm (L×W×H). The digger blade was designed with dimensions of 1000(l) × 200(b) × 8(t) mm. Length and width of conveyor is 700 mm and 1000 mm, respectively. Power required for digging, pulling an equipment and conveyor is 11.54 kW, 0.66 kW and 1.15 kW. Total power requirement of the unit is 13.35 kW.

Department of Vegetables, Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Breeding, Horticulture Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i03.47

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Abstract: This study was conducted at the research facilities of the Horticulture Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center in Egypt during the period from 2017 to 2019 to develop cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) inbred lines and hybrids tolerant to high temperature to reduce losses in quality and yield and evaluate them under greenhouse conditions. Twenty two inbred lines and twenty hybrids were evaluated in the two successive summer plantings of 2017/18 and 2018/19 under greenhouse conditions along with the hybrid Lamar as a control. Total yield reflected great variation among the inbred lines and ranged from 5.50 to 0.53 kg^-1. P₁₀ gave the greatest total yield and it was at par with P₁₉. Narrow range (3.20 to 2.50 cm) was observed among hybrids for fruit diameter. The highest value was recorded in P₂×P₅. Fruit weight reflected great variation among the hybrids and the hybrid, P₂×P₅ gave the heaviest fruit weight. Data showed significant differences among hybrids for total yield and hybrid P₁×P₃ gave the highest value of total yield and was at par with hybrid Lamar (control). The cross P₁×P₄ achieved high specific combining ability (SCA) effects for all traits in this study which means comparing the general combining ability effects (GCA) of the parents to their corresponding crosses’ SCA indicate that the GCA effects of the parents were reflected in the SCA effects of the crosses for the most studied traits. The reciprocal effects in F₁ diallel crosses were significant for most of the traits studied and the cross P₅×P₁ achieved high SCA effects for all traits.

Viticulture Department Horticulture Research Institute, ARC, Giza, Egypt. Department of Soil and Water, Faculty of Agriculture, Beni-Suef University, Egypt.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.20

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Abstract: This investigation was conducted during three successive seasons of 2016, 2017 and 2018 in a private vineyard located at Samaloute district, Minia Governorate, Egypt on Red Globe grapevines to study the possibility of reducing the amount of mineral phosphorus and potassium fertilizers by using its natural rocks when combined with organic manure (FYM), bio-fertilizers (BF) and elemental sulphur (S). The chosen vines were nine years old, grown in a clay loam soil, spaced at 1.75 x 3 m apart, irrigated under surface irrigation system, and spur-pruned, trellised by Gable supporting system and trained to quadrilateral cordon system. The results revealed the possibility of using 50 % natural rocks of P and K + FYM + BF + S as a partial substitute of mineral phosphorus and potassium fertilizers. Application of 50 % mineral P and K + 50 % natural rocks of P and K + FYM + BF + S exhibited the most suitable management system for achieving the best yield with its components, physical properties of clusters, improved physical and chemical berry characteristics, vegetative growth, leaf chlorophyll and mineral content of Red Globe grapevines. The treatment also improved the soil properties.

ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Rehmankhera, Lucknow 226101, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.21

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Abstract: The study was conducted on the visitor preference for different modules of National Mango Database developed by ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow, India. The purpose behind creating the database was to develop a portal for providing information on different aspects related to mango. A number of modules were developed on the portal https://mangifera.res.in. Important modules of the database are on 566 phytochemicals, 294 protein sequences, 540 primers, 30,000 nucleotides, 1690 EST, 66 field gene banks holding >4500 accessions, nurseries, processing units, exporters, species, varieties. A module on online phenology monitoring system and a web tool to compare test variety with reference variety was also developed as per DUS guidelines for suggesting reference variety after comparison with candidate’s variety. Agumented knowledge in the database is attracting high number of visitors from all over the world for collecting useful information available in different modules of the portal. The present analysis deals with the popularity of different modules through collated information at the portal. Digital products as an outcome may be developed for the use by farmers, traders, scientists, students and mango lovers. On the basis of analysis made for hits it can be said that mango database becoming popular among people as a unique mango repository and people around the world are showing interest in its different modules.

Biotechnology & Nanotechnology Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia. Horticulture Research Centre, MARDI Sintok, 06050, Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah, Malaysia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.22

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Abstract: The study was conducted on a polyembryonic mango, Harumanis which contains more than one embryos including one zygotic andsingle or more number of nucellar one. In this paper, we used microsatellite markers to identify whether the seedlings of Harumanis were zygotic or nucellar. A total of 95 progenies of Harumanis were evaluated using 13 polymorphic microsatellite markers. The genetic profiling revealed that a total of 14 Harumanis progenies were zygotic or open pollinated seedling as their genetic profile was different with Harumanis at least at one loci. Nevertheless, 76 Harumanis progenies were true to type or nucellar seedlings as their genetic profile was similar to Harumanis. The remaining five progenies could not be identified with the call rates of the genotypic data. Identifying true to type or nucellar seedling is useful for nursery growers to determine the true to type Harumanis progenies from the seed. Meanwhile, the open pollinated seedling or zygotic seedlings are preferred by breeders as they are considered as a new variety which increases the mango genetic variability.

Study Program of Agroecotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Udayana, Bali, Indonesia. ²Study Program of Agribusiness, Faculty of Agriculture. University of Udayana, Bali, Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.23

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Abstract: Fruit and flower crops based on the secondary data were the types of featured horticultural products analyzed and identified in this study sourced from BPS of Bali Province and BPS of Tabanan District. Location Quotient (LQ) was used for identification of featured fruit and flower plant product of sub-district in Tabanan district. The localization of the featured product was analyzed using the localization coefficient (?) and regional specialties using the specialization coefficient (?). The results of the analysis showed that the featured fruit products from Tabanan district are orange, guava, water guava, pineapple, papaya, banana, jackfruit, duku, zallaca, mangosteen and durian being cultivated in Pupuan and Penebel subdistrict. Fruit products are not localized in one district. Although the fruit products are superior, but Tabanan district is not specialized in producing fruit plants, which is indicated by a coefficient of specialization that is smaller than one. Featured flower plant products are most cultivated in Marga and Baturiti subdistricts. Flower plant products are not localized in one subdistrict shown by the localization coefficient which is smaller than one. However, based on the specialization coefficient, Tabanan District is specialized in producing heliconia flowers with a specialization coefficient greater than one.

Department of Textiles and Clothing, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore. India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.24

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Abstract: Natural fibres are revived and used in various applications as a substitute for environmentally hazardous synthetic fibres. Many researches are going on for developing fabric both woven and non woven composites from fibers of banana pseudostem. Banana fibres have scope for export also. It’s year round availability and affordability, has good market potential. Today banana fibre products are produced at small scale. The possibilities of using non conventional natural fibres in regular basis need to be explored. Fabrics are made from banana fiber and can be considered green apparel of the future. This review paper discusses the fiber source, extraction, availability, applications and potential for successful commercial use for developing rural employment opportunities.

Faculty of Natural Sciences, Hongduc University, Thanhhoa city, Vietnam. Faculty of Biology, Hanoi National University of Education, Hanoi city, Vietnam. Faculty of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries, Hongduc University, Thanhhoa city,Vietnam

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.25

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Abstract: This paper presents research results on the changes in physiological and biochemical parameters during growth and development of mango fruit grown in Vietnam, thereby determining the physiological maturity time of the fruit. The results showed that significant changes occurred in pigments content, reducing sugar content, starch content, total organic acid content, vitamin C content, protein content, lipid content, pectin content, tannin content and changes in the activity of enzymes ?-amylase, catalase, peroxidase of mango from formation to fruit ripening. Based on the results, we found that mango fruit should be harvested at physiological maturity (16 weeks old) before completely ripening on the tree to ensure the nutritional value of the fruit during storage.

Vegetable Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Palur - 607 102, Tamil Nadu, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.26

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Abstract: Jamun fruits collected from different locations showed wide variations in fruit and seed characters. Among 49 genotypes, SC1, SC27, SC33 and SC40 had lesser seed weight ranging from 0.3 to 0.8 g, therefore these genotypes can be considered as seedless types. Also, these genotypes had least seed content viz., 9.1 % (SC1), 10.3 % (SC27), 6.5 % (SC33) and 5.6 % (SC40). Nevertheless, these genotypes have two types of fruit in which the bigger fruits have thin seed and others have no seed. In seedless fruits, the aborted ovule was recorded. In addition, the seedless genotypes were found to have higher total soluble solids and sugars. Therefore, these genotypes can be used in the food industry particularly for the preparation of value added products and also as table fruit variety.

Department of Horticulture, Sikkim University, Gangtok- 737 102, India. Present Address: Department of Horticulture, Sikkim University, 6^th Mile, Tadong, Gangtok- 737 102, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.27

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Abstract: Ginger is one of the major cash crops of Sikkim and being an organic state, maintaining sustainability in ginger cultivation is a challenge especially in the changing climate scenario. Soft rot caused by Pythium aphanidermatum is a major problem in ginger cultivation and the disease has resulted into reduction in the acreage under the crop in this Himalayan state. Conventional exhaustive organic inputs, self renewable organic inputs like plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) were tested against the soft rot incidence in ginger for two consecutive years. Two local varieties, namely, Bhaise and Majouley were used with conventional organic inputs and PGPR, alone and in combinations. The disease causing organism was challenge inoculated. The disease symptoms were assessed by visual scoring. In addition, growth and yield parameters were recorded. The results revealed that PGPR along with the other organic inputs have a significant effect on disease suppression in addition to promoting the growth and yield parameters like plant height, number of leaves, number of tillers, leaf area and yield per plant. The information generated can act as a readily available environmentally safe method for the management of soft rot in ginger through organic means.

College of Agronomic Engineering, Federal University of Pará, Altamira-PA, Brazil. Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife-PE, Brazil. ³Department of Production Vegetable, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Serra Talhada-PE, Brazil. ⁴Department of Agropecuária, – Specialized Academic Unit in Agrarian Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Macaíba-RN, Brazil. ⁵Center for Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Campina Grande, Pombal-PB, Brazil. ⁶São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Science and Engeneering, Tupã-SP, Brazil. ⁷Department of Human Sciences, University of the State of Bahia, Barreiras-BA, Brazil.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.28

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Abstract: Gerbera is a very popular ornamental plant and used in ornamental gardens or as a cut flower. However, as a cut flower, postharvest quality is minimal, which requires solutions to ensure its longevity, especially with acidic solutions. The study was conducted understand if the action of maintenance solutions with acids influence the postharvest physiology of gerbera cv. ‘Piang’. The experimental design was factorial completely randomized consisting of two factors: four postharvest treatments and seven evaluation times. The flowers were kept in 200 mg L^-1 of citric acid solution (ACS reagent, ? 99.5 % - Sigma-Aldrich), 200 mg L^-1 of boric acid solution (ACS reagent, ? 99.5 %) and 200 mg L^-1 of salicylic acid solution (ACS reagent, ? 99.0 %) and potable water as a control. During the postharvest period, fresh mass loss, water absorption, petal luminosity, total longevity, peroxidase (POD) enzyme activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, total protein and total carbohydrate content were studied. Treatments with boric and salicylic acids recorded higher percentage of fresh weight loss. Citric acid showed higher water absorption rate and better appearance in the luminosity of the petals. The total protein and carbohydrate content decreased during the evaluation period but in the citric acid treatment, the reduction was not so significant. On the other hand, citric acid induced higher peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity in the second day of evaluation and lower activity until the tenth day.

Silviculture Research Institute, Vietnamese Academy of Forest Sciences, Hanoi, Vietnam. Centre for Applied Silviculture Research and Extension, Silviculture Research Institute, Vietnamese Academy of Forest Sciences, Hanoi, Vietnam. Vietnam National University of Forestry, Xuan Mai, Hanoi, Vietnam.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.29

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Abstract: Vegetative propagation method such as cutting provide uniform plant materials from mother plants. The effects of medium and exogenous hormone pretreatment on rooting were studied for golden camellia - Camellia impressinervis, a tree species which is used for healthcare. The results showed that exogenous hormone IBA (Indole-3-butyric acid), IAA (Indole-3-acetic acid), and their different concentrations significantly affected rooting efficiency. Cuttings treated with IBA and IAA had significantly higher rooting percentage than control (54.2 %). Higher rooting efficiency was obtained with IBA, which resulted in highest rooting percentage of 91.4 % at 4 months of growth by using concentration of 0.5 % (by weight). Hormone types and their concentrations did not affect mean root number (MRN) and mean root length (MRL). Cutting media significantly affected rooting efficiency, MRN per cutting, and MRL. Using medium of 100 % sand resulted in highest rooting percentage ( 91.4 %), roots per cutting (4.2) and MRL (5.4 cm) at 4 months of growth. It is concluded that to produce seedlings for C. impressinervis by cuttings, rooting medium of 100 % sand should be used and cuttings should be pretreated by 0.5 % IBA. In addition, cutting management is also important for rooting efficiency. It must be controlled with humidity of >95 % and temperature of <27^oC.

Field Crops Research Institute, Hai Duong, Vietnam. Department of Crop Science and Biotechnology, Dankook University, Chungnam 3116, Republic of Korea. Department of Crop Sciences, College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Al-Khoud 123, Oman.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.30

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Abstract: The Korean radish (Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus) cvs. BDM, CDM, HGM, HTM, JKM and SJM, and a standard Vietnamese cv. R13 were evaluated for adaptability, yield and quality as affected by planting geometry in Vietnam over two growing seasons. In first season, radish cultivars were planted under the planting geometries 30 × 15 cm, 30 × 30 cm, or 60 × 30 cm. The Korean radish cultivars produced better yield of good quality than the Vietnamese cultivar. The Korean and Vietnamese cultivars had better root yield with the planting geometries of 30 × 15 cm and 60 × 30 cm, respectively. The Korean radish cultivars SJM, JKM and BDM, performed well in Vietnam, in terms of yield and quality than the Vietnamese cultivar. Therefore, Korean radish cultivars may be grown in Vietnam.

Biotechnology Department, Ho Chi Minh City Open University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 70000.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.17

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Abstract: Yield imporovement is one of major breeding objectives of cucumber improvement. Gynoecious, an important agricultural trait which highly correlates with yield, was proved to be controlled by F locus. Conventional plant breeding approach has some limitations in terms of potential inaccuracies and time-consuming. Molecular marker - assisted breeding is, therefore, an effectively alternative solution. F locus– linked molecular marker was previously reported. The main aim of this project was to evaluate the potential applicability of this F locus– specific marker for marker–assisted selection in Vietnam cucumber breeding program. Three different cucumber populations e.g., pure lines, F2 and F3 population were utilized with 13, 131 and 84 plants, respectively for each population. Plant sexual phenotypes were determined. Sequencing reactions were performed for BCAT 3’UTR of 3 gynoecious and 2 monoecious pure lines. Plant genotypes were determined by standard PCR with a primer pair amplifying a 56 bp-deletion region in BCAT 3’UTR. A 56 bp-deletion was found in BCAT 3’UTR of gynoecious pure lines as compared with monoecious lines. The marker based on this 56 bp-deletion region in BCAT 3’UTR could help to separate cucumber plants having homozygous and heterozygous sex phenotypes. The marker genotype absolutely corresponded with monoecious trait. Especially, the marker could precisely explain for 80 % gynoecious trait. The marker highly explained for Vietnam cucumber sex traits and could be applied for marker-assisted selection in cucumber breeding program in Vietnam in future.

Department of Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 3190 Maile Way, St. John Plant Science Lab 102, Honolulu, HI 96822. ²Department of Plant and Environmental Protection Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 3050 Maile Way, Gilmore Hall 609, Honolulu, HI 96822.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.18

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Abstract: Seashore paspalum has gained increased popularity in Hawaii due to its salt tolerance and the use of non-potable water on golf courses. Bermudagrass and goosegrass are problem weeds infesting both fairways and greens on many seashore paspalum golf courses. Herbicide efficacy studies were conducted at the West Loch Golf Course (‘Salam’ seashore paspalum, greens cut) on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. The herbicides metribuzin, topramezone, mesotrione, and ethofumesate were evaluated in tank mixtures for bermudagrass and mature goosegrass control and seashore paspalum injury. Goosegrass was controlled with tank mixes that included topramezone (0.01 kg ha^-1) + metribuzin (0.10 kg ha^-1) with an acceptable level of seashore paspalum discoloration. Incorporating a post-spray dry down allowed for complete control of goosegrass with one spray application. Maximum bermudagrass injury was seen in treatments with mesotrione (0.07 kg ha^-1) and/or ethofumesate (1.12 kg ha^-1). Applications of mesotrione did not result in goosegrass control. Seashore paspalum turf bleaching from mesotrione and topramezone can be reduced with the addition of metribuzin and/or ethofumesate to the tank mix.

Vegetable Breeding Res. Dept. Hort. Res. Inst. Agric. Res. Cent. Giza, Egypt. Onion, Garlic and Oil Crops Diseases Research Department, Plant Pathology Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt. Vegetative Reproduction Res. Dept. Hort. Inst. Agric. Res. Cent. Giza, Egypt. Plant Protection and Biomolecular Diagnosis Department, Arid Lands Cultivation Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications, Alexandria, Egypt.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i02.19

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Abstract: This study was conducted during the winter seasons of 2015 to 2019 to select garlic clones superior in yield, quality and tolerant or resistant to white rot disease. Fourteen mutants from Balady and five mutants from Egassed-1 garlic cvs. were isolated in stable form and selected after 4 successive generations (M1V4) from previous breeding program using mutagens viz., di-ethyel sulphate (DES), di (2-chloro ethyel) amine (DEA) and gamma ray. Cloves of two local garlic cultivars (Balady and Egassed-1) were irradiated with gamma ray doses i.e. 1, 3, 5,10 and 15 Gy or treated with previous mutagens. Out of Balady selected clones, Mut 6-1 and Mut 6 had the heaviest cloves compared to the original cultivar with values of 3.8 and 3.6 g/cloves, in 2015/2016 and 2016/2017seasons, respectively. Likewise, Mut 6-2 and Mut 7 which resulted from Eggaseed-1 cv. had the heaviest cloves compared to the original cultivar with values of 7.6 and 7.2 g/cloves, in the first and second seasons, respectively. Significant positive correlations were detected between the most of the desirable traits. Artificial infestation with Sclerotium cepivorum was carried out under greenhouse conditions during two successive seasons of 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 and under natural infestation in the open field to evaluate the resistance in the two cultivars and their mutants. In case of Balady cv., Mut 6-1 (10 GY) and Mut 2 (0.1 % DEA) were highly tolerant in the two tested seasons with infection percentage of 11.33 and 12.33 % in the first season and 13.33 and 15.33 % in the second one with efficacy 80.4, 78.74 and 78.15, 74.87 %, respectively, compared to Balady (58 and 61 % infection). Regarding, Eggaseed-1 cv., Mut 6-2 and Mut 6-1 resulted from irridiation (10 GY) were highly tolerant mutants in the two tested seasons with infection percentage of 8.33 and 10.67 % in the first season and 9 and 10.67 % in the second one with efficacy 81.21, 75.93 % and 81.38, 79.99 %, respectively as compared to original cultivar,(44.33 and 48.33 % infection). Results of employed QRT-PCR technique showed that Mut 6-1 (10 GY) which had significantly high tolerance to garlic white rot disease showed great regulation-up of detective defense genes (PR1, PR5, PAL and HQT) with high relative expression values compared to original cultivar, Balady. Similar results were obtained in case of Eggaseed-1 cv. Results showed that respective encoded PR and polyphenol synthase genes might have played important role in defense reaction of obtained mutants of two tested garlic cultivars against S. cepivorum infection. Mutants with high tolerance to garlic white rot disease could be used by growers in the infested areas.

Date Palm Research Center of Excellence, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. Frontier Agriculture, SOYL Precision Crop Production Division, Newbury, United Kingdom.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.03

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Abstract: Present study was designed to evaluate the response of date palm cultivars Khadrawy and Zahidi to varied concentrations of pollen grains liquid suspension (1, 2, 3 and 4 g L^-1). The experiment was arranged in two-factorial randomized complete block design. Results of the study revealed that the pollen application of 4 g L^-1 significantly increased fruit set (86 %), fruit weight (11.27 g), fruit length (38.27 mm), fruit width (23.70 mm), fruit thickness (18.90 mm), fruit geometric diameter (24.93 mm), fruit arithmetic diameter (26.96 mm), fruit surface area (1953.93 mm²), fruit volume (11.29 cc), yield per palm (23.97 kg), seed length (2.40 cm), pulp weight (9.83 g), pulp:seed ratio (6.88) and moisture content (22.72 %). However, fruit drop parameter was minimal (37 %) in that treatment as compared to others. All other parameters (fruit sphericity, seed weight, seed diameter, percent of pulp, percent of seed, total soluble solids, total sugars, reducing sugars and non-reducing sugars) were statistically not different. However, application of 3 g L^-1 pollen grains liquid suspension treatment was closely followed by 4 g L^-1 pollen grain application regarding all these attributes. Comparison between the date palm cultivars, Khadrawy was observed superior than Zahidi regarding aforesaid parameters. The interaction of both factors showed positive impact of 4 g L^-1 pollen suspension concentration when applied to cultivar Khadrawy, which was closely followed by 3 g L^-1 application. It is therefore, concluded from the present research that although the application of 4 g L^-1 pollen suspension treatment gave the best results in both cultivars, application of 3 g L^-1 pollen suspension can also be practiced at a minimal compromise on date palm yield and quality for both cultivars.

Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maroua, P.O. Box 814, Cameroon. Department of Agriculture, Livestock and By-Products, National Advanced School of Engineering of Maroua, University of Maroua, P.O. Box 46, Cameroon. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Ngaoundere, P.O. Box 454, Cameroon.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.04

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Abstract: Comparing the foraging behaviour and the pollination efficiency of honey bee (Apis mellifera) with a carpenter bee (Xylocopa olivacea) in the farmer garden of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) was conducted in Maroua (Cameroun) in 2016 and 2017. Several foraging parameters were assessed for each bee species during the blooming period of watermelon and comparisons were made between fruit and seed yields from four pollination treatments on female flowers including the no bee visit treatment (T₀), the one bee visit treatment for A. mellifera (T₁) and X. olivacea (T₂) and the unrestricted treatment (T₃). Results showed an important difference in the rhythm of activity between the two bee species with a peak of floral activity of X. olivacea at 07:00-08:00 a.m. time interval and that of A. mellifera at 09:00-10:00 a.m. A. mellifera was prominent than X. olivacea regarding the frequency of floral visits in 2016 (77.74 and 22.26 %) and in 2017 (81.28 and 18.72 %) and the density of individuals per 1000 flowers in 2016 (442/1000 flowers and 97/1000 flowers) and in 2017 (476/1000 flowers and 88/1000 flowers). Despite the higher foraging intensity of A. mellifera compared with that of X. olivacea, the carpenter bee was a more efficient pollinator than the honey bee. Indeed, the mean treatments for fruiting rate, mean fruit weight, mean fruit diameter, and mean mature seeds per fruit of watermelon were higher on the one visit basis in T₂ than T₁. Moreover, the unrestricted treatment T₃ produced fruit with the best marketable value than restricted treatments T₂, T₁, and T₀. X. olivacea should be associated with A. mellifera in a watermelon field to optimize the pollination of this crop for obtaining improved yields. Considering very high pollinating efficiency of X. olivacea, the means of conservation must be developed for this solitary bee which appeared in this work as a synergistic or alternative pollinator of the honey bee within a watermelon farm.

Department of Plant Pathology, Centre for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641003, India,

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.05

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Abstract: The aim of the research was to identify the emerging rust disease in fig cultivation. In commercial orchards in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India, trees infected with rust exhibited reddish-brown angular leaf spots on their upper surfaces while their lower leaf surfaces contained numerous orange to reddish, rust pustules. An intensive survey was conducted to determine the incidence and severity of rust in fig orchards of the different districts of the Western Ghats and found that the incidence was very severe (100 %) in Pannaikadu, Dindigul district. To confirm the pathogen and its infection module, scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze these rust pustules and their anatomy. Based on the microscopy study, the subjected pathogen was identified as Cerotelium fici, this is the first detailed report of C. fici infection on fig plants in India.

Department of Plant Sciences, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal - 576104, Karnataka. India. Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal - 576104, Karnataka. India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.06

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Abstract: The pre-treatment of seeds with physical and chemical agents or exposure to different temperatures improves the viability and germination of seeds. The current study was aimed to explore the consequence of various pre-treatments on in vitro seed germination percentage of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) var. Mattu Gulla. The seeds were pre-treated with Helium-Neon (He-Ne) laser (632.8 nm, 7.1 mW with a power density of 4.0198 mW/cm²), low and high temperatures, acid and alkali. The pre-treated seeds were surface sterilized and germinated aseptically on Murashige and Skoog medium and incubated at 25±2 ºC with 16 h photoperiod. A positive effect of the pre-treatments on germination percentage was observed for He-Ne laser (30 J/cm²), low temperature (4 and -20 °C) and sulphuric acid (30 %). The low temperature pre-treatments were significantly improved the germination of Mattu Gulla seeds while alkali pre-treatment with potassium hydroxide (2.5, 5.3 and 7.6 M KOH) showed inhibitory effect on in vitro seed germination. Thus, the study revealed the integral role of pre-treatment especially with low level laser irradiation and low temperature treatment for the augmented in vitro seed germination of brinjal variety.

Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong Dubai, Dubai, UAE.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.01

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Abstract: This paper summarizes the implementation of a vertical Micro-Farm that uses a WiFi network to communicate with sensors and actuators from multiple nodes. It addresses the issue of ordinary vertical farms, which require the user to monitor it occasionally to provide fertilizer and water. The system can be easily configured to automatically control supply of nutrients, water and light requirements for various plant types through a web enabled Interface. The web dashboard can further provide complex analysis of the whole system by collecting values from different sensors. The designed vertical farm system is power efficient, self-sustained, and can be setup easily by the user as each vertical rack acts as a single node or module. The user only needs to plant the seeds and fill up the tanks. Due to the modular approach, the system is also scalable without requirement of more complicated materials or wiring.

Department of Horticulture, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah, Bakrajo, 46001, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.07

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Abstract: In order to study the effects of four IBA concentrations [0, 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg L^-1], and three substrate pH levels [pH 5, 7 and 9] on rooting of hardwood cuttings of peach cv. Red May, experiment were conducted at the Department of Horticulture, College of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sulaimani/ Kurdistan,Iraq, . The experiment was laid down in a factorial RCBD with three replications. Comparison among means was done using Duncan’s multiple range test (P?0.05). Rooting and callusing percentage, root number, root length, root fresh weight, root dry weight, shoot length, shoot diameter, leaf number, leaf area, shoot fresh weight and shoot dry weight were examined. The highest rooting percentage (40 %) was achieved from 2000 mg L^-1 IBA. However, effects of IBA levels were not significant on callusing. Control gave no rooting and other root traits. Effects of the IBA concentration on vegetative traits were not different with each other except shoot diameter and leaf number. Shoot diameter and leaf number were the highest (1.12 mm and 4.51, respectively) at 2000 mg L^-1 IBA. Rooting and other parameters were the best in pH 5 and 7 substrates. Substrate pH 9 gave minimum rooting and other parameters. Effects of interactions between the two factors showed that cuttings treated with 2000 mg L^-1 IBA and planted in pH 7 substrate gave the highest (60 %) rooting percentage, and cuttings dipped in 1000 mg L^-1 IBA and planted in pH 7 substrate gave the best other root traits. Interaction effects of the two factors on shoot traits showed that the maximum shoot traits were observed at interaction between 2000 mg L^-1 IBA and pH 5 substrate.

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Regional Research Station, Lucknow (U.P.) - 226002, India. Central Institute for Sub-tropical Horticulture, Lucknow- 243122, India. Banasthali Vidyapith, Jaipur, Rajasthan – 304022, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.08

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Abstract: Cumin wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cumini is one of the most destructive diseases responsible for causing even up to 60 per cent yield losses in cumin belt of India. Due to the soil inhabiting and seed borne nature with aggressive sporulation ability of the pathogen, sustainable and effective management of this disease using cultural practices and chemical methods is tedious. However, the uses of resistant varieties as well as novel biocontrol agents offer more economic and environmental friendly method of management which can be integrated with regulated chemical methods to achieve maximum disease suppression. Therefore, in the present study Trichoderma spp. isolated from banana rhizosphere of wilt suppressive and salt affected soils of Uttar Pradesh were characterized using morphological and molecular methods. The isolates were evaluated for their antagonistic potential against the pathogen F. oxysporum f. sp. cumini through dual culture assay. Out of 21 Trichoderma isolates screened, three isolates viz., CSR-T-2, CSR-T-3 and CSR-T-4 showed significant inhibition of F. oxysporum f. sp. cumini with 62.65, 79.85 and 84.31 per cent inhibition, respectively. The three promising isolates were characterized morphologically on the basis of their colony characters on different culture media as well as microconidia size, setae, colour, hyphae, chlamydospores etc. The molecular identification for confirmation of. sp.cies status of these isolates were done by sequencing ribosomal RNA using ITS1 and ITS4 universal primers. The 3 isolates viz., CSR-T-2, CSR-T-3 and CSR-T-4 were identified as T. koningiopsis (KJ812401), T. reesei (MH997668) and T. asperellum (MN227242), respectively. In the present study the isolate CSR-T-4 identified as T. asperellum was found to be best in inhibiting the mycelia growth of cumin wilt pathogen under in-vitro conditions and thus can be further exploited for the biological management of cumin wilt under field conditions in form of bioformulation.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramagirikhilla, Peddapalli, Telangana State, India-505212.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.09

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Abstract: India is the leading country for growing chilli with highest area, production, consumption and also for export. Telangana State is the second largest producer in India. Due to high fluctuations in market price and high cost of cultivation coupled with lower yields are leading to frequent low profits and even loss to the farmer. Targeting high profits, a new chilli variety, LCA-620 was assessed in the farmer’s field for three consecutive years from 2016-17 to 2018-19 in Karimnagar district of Telangana State, India. Higher yields were recorded in the variety as identified by longer fruit length and high dry weight of fruit as critical factors. With overall superior performance by recording 9.6 % of yield increase and 4.5 % of cost saving, 28.6 % of high net return was achieved in the new variety, LCA-620 over control (Teja) with high B:C ratio of 2.3 compared to control (1.96).

Department of Crop Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, PO Box 34, Al Khoud 123, Sultanate of Oman. Department of Soils, Water and Agricultural Engineering, Sultan Qaboos University, PO Box 34, Al Khoud 123, Sultanate of Oman.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.10

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Abstract: Salinity is a major environmental factor limiting agricultural production in the arid and semi-arid regions of the world. Capillary barrier (CB) created from substrate structuring is a technique that can potentially be used to mitigate salinity, however, little has been done to evaluate the use of structured potting media for this purpose. This study evaluated the effects of CB structured potting media on the growth and physiology of marigold under salinity stress. These configurations used the following substrates: vermiculite (V), perlite (P), sand (S), and peat moss (PM) that were stacked in a pot in three layers from top to bottom: V-P-V, V-S-V, and V-P-PM. Four salinity levels of irrigation water were applied to each of the three configurations that included (Control (Desalinated, ECi ? 0.6 dS m^-1), 3 dS m^-1, 6 dS m^-1, and 9 dS m^-1). The results showed that salinity adversely affects the vegetative, reproductive and physiological parameters of marigold. However, the best growth of marigolds was for those grown in the layered V-S-V media. The layered V-S-V media was the best media among the tested media that can mitigate salinity stress of marigold. The outcome from this study is important for farmers and nursery growers in many arid areas where saline water is the only available irrigation source.

Horticultural Research Institute- Agricultural Research Center, Cairo, Egypt.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.11

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Abstract: This study was carried out from 2016 to 2017 at Agricultural Research Center, Cairo, Egypt. From former evaluation work on several inbred lines of melon, eight inbred lines were chosen as parents for 4 crosses, viz., RIL D51 × RIL 154 (C. melo var. cantaloupensis, galia type), RIL Mg₅ × RIL 148 (C. melo var. cantaloupensis, charentais type), RIL A10 × RIL A5 (C. melo var. ananas) and RIL Si819 × RIL Ab11 (C. melo var. aegyptiaca) to interpret the genetics of fruit flesh colour. Parental, F₁, F_1r, F₂ and BCs populations of each cross were sown in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 4 replicates in the 2017 early summer season in open field using a drip-irrigation system. One pair of genes governed the fruit flesh colour character in all the four crosses. The type of dominance was no dominance of the dark green over orange flesh colour or the reverse in the first hybrid, complete dominance of the reddish orange over dark green flesh colour in the second hybrid, partial dominance of the white over orange flesh colour in the third hybrid and complete dominance of the orange over greenish white flesh colour in the fourth hybrid. Mid and better parent heterosis values were 0.00 and -15.50 % in the first hybrid, 25.00 and 0.00 % in the second hybrid, -57.89 and – 77.46 in the third hybrid and 44.90 and 0.00 % in the fourth one, respectively. Hundred percent broad sense heritability (BSH) was recorded in the four hybrids, but narrow sense heritability (NSH) differed from moderate to elevated, being 36.5, 72.15, 28.48 and 26.46 % in the first, second, third and fourth hybrids, respectively. These results proved that melon flesh colour is influenced by genotypic variability. Also, the melon flesh colour inheritance was complex and this may be due to flesh colour gene has multiple alleles (polygenic inheritance).

Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran, Department of Water Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran, ³Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.12

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Abstract: ‘Granny Smith’, a variety of apple is susceptible to superficial scald. Superficial scald is one of the most controversial post-harvest physiological disorders. At the moment there is no complete documented information about the pre-harvest factors responsible for its induction, symptom development and control methods. Accordingly, this study was to examine the possible link between the disorder and qualitative indicators of environmental changes, particularly humidity during early fruit growth and cell division. The study was conducted in a commercial orchard in Abyek region, Alborz-Iran in 2014. Examined trees were 7 year-olds and grafted onto seedling rootstocks. On-tree water spray was done during full bloom, 17 May till 6 June, in four levels including 0-day, 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day water spray. Fruits were harvested 160 days after full bloom (DAFB) and stored in a commercial chamber (5±2?C) in four levels including: 0-day (before storage), 30-day, 60-day and 90-day of cold storage. Superficial scald severity in the 0-day water spray samples was 91.7 % after 60- and 90-day storage, while all three water spray treatment regime significantly reduced it after 60- and 90-day storage. The 14-day water spray was significantly more effective in reducing the incidence of superficial scald which was 91 % after 60-day and 75 % after 90-day storage. The highest firmness (9.5 kg cm^-2) was observed before storage. The highest SSC was observed in the 7-day water spray and before the storage. Interestingly, on-tree water spray considerably decreased superficial scald and/or delayed its severity during mid- and long-term storage.

Department of Olericulture, College of Agriculture, Vellayani 695 522, Kerala, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.13

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Abstract: The study was conducted to evaluate the influence of different levels of fertigation and drip irrigation on yield and quality of watermelon. Fertigation treatments were 75, 100 and 125 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RD). Irrigation treatments were 0.6 and 0.8 evapotranspiration (ET) rates. One control was taken with surface irrigation and conventional soil application of fertilizers. Levels of fertigation and irrigation exerted significant influence on number of fruits plant^-1 and yield plant^-1. Total yield was highest at 100 % RD (91.1 t ha^-1) compared to 125 % RD (80.13 t ha^-1). Fertigation at 100 % RD recorded highest number of fruits which was on par with 125 % RD. There was increase in number of fruits plant^-1 and fruit yield with increase in irrigation level from 0.6 to 0.8 ET. Fertigation at 100 % RD recorded the highest yield of 8.51 kg plant^-1. Fertigation and irrigation levels had no influence on fruit weight. TSS, lycopene, ascorbic acid and sugar contents did not increase with deficit irrigation of 0.6 ET.

Departement of Agroecotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh, Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.14

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Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the pepper yellow leaf curl disease (PepYLCD) caused by begomovirus at different elevations on the percentage of growth and yield reduction in chili (Capsicum annuum L.) plants. The study was conducted in farmer’s field at Lambeugak (lowland) with the latitude of 30 meter above sea level (m asl) and Saree (middleland) with the latitude of 485 m asl of Aceh Province, Northern Sumatera, Indonesia. The samples selection was obtained using the Purpose Sampling method. Data collection were devided into 2 clusters where the first cluster samples were choosen randomly from 600 plants (300 plants for lowland and 300 plants for middleland) for the disease incident percentage and second cluster samples were choosen randomly from first cluster, each field consisted of 30 plants (15 virus-symptomatic plants and 15 non-virus symptomatic plants) for the reduction of growth and yield percentage. PepYLCD incidence in lowland reached 100 % at 120 day after transplanting (DPT), whereas in middleland it occurred at 150 DPT. At 45 DPT virus-symptomatic plants at lowland encountered higher reduction percentage of growth than the middleland plants, including height of plant (43.6 %) and stem diameter (31.1 %). The yield of virus-symptomatic plants in lowlands encountered higher loss than the middleland plants, including the number of fruits per plant (53.6 %) and productivity (72.6 %). The reduction of growth and yield was also suspected to be the impact of temperature differences that the average and maximum temperatures of lowland (27.68 and 35.53 ^oC) was higher than the middleland (25.36 and 30.17 ^oC) during the experimental period. Our present study showed that the escalation of PepYLCD incidence was affected by environmental factors which reduced the growth and yield of chili plants.

Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari - 396 450, Gujarat, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.15

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Abstract: The stability analysis of 26 diverse genotypes of marigold (Tagetes spp.) carried out over three different environments, revealed that the differences among genotypes and environments were highly significant for all the characters when tested against both pooled error as well as pooled deviation. The analysis further revealed that component of G x E (linear) had most contribution for plant height, number of secondary branches per plant, days to first flowering, flower diameter, flower weight, number of flowers per plant and flower yield per plant indicating significant differences among the genotypes for their regression on environmental indices. Considering the three stability parameters, Local Selection 13 for flower yield (414.40 g/plant); F₁ White Dwarf, Local Selection 2 and Namdhari African Orange for earliness and Local Selection 9, Local Selection 14 and Local Selection 13 for individual flower weight were identified as promising genotypes for further improvement programme.

Agribusiness and Rural Development (ARD) Department, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah City 46011, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Department of Horticulture, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah City 46011, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.02

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Abstract: This study was conducted to determine the effect of different fertigation levels and intervals on growth, yield and flower quality of red cut rose (hybrid tea rose) under a semi-controlled condition at the Horticulture Department, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Sulaimani. The experiment was laid out in RCBD design with six fertigation treatments, each with three replicates. The fertigation treatments comprised of 0, 0.5, 1 and 1.5 g/L of compound fertilizer (NPK+micro-nutrients) with two intervals (1 and 2 weeks). The results indicated that fertigation rate of 1.5 g/L and 1 g/L increased the flower yield and quality of flower significantly. Additionally, the main and interaction effects of fertigation rates and intervals was clearly observed in this study.

Department of Botany, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli - 620 024, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2020.v22i01.16

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Abstract: This study demonstrates the morphogenic potential of Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb, a traditional medicinal plant of the family Fabaceae/ Caesalpinaceae. The present study was designed to examine the effect of phytohormones on plant regeneration from epicotyl and hypocotyl explants of C. bonduc. The dormancy of the seeds was overcomed by acid scarification._. Of the two explants tested, 92 percent frequency of shoot regeneration and maximum number of shoots (3.6 ± 0.3), were noticed from the epicotyl explants on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium fortified with 6-benzyladenine (BA) 3.0 mg/L, Indole– 3- acetic acid (IAA) 1.0 mg/L and Poly vinyl pyrrolidone 100 mg/L at pH 5.8. Elongated shoots were individually rooted on half strength MS medium supplemented with 1.5 mg/L Indole -3-butric acid (IBA) and exhibited 93 % frequency of root development. The in vitro raised plantlets were potted and acclimatized under culture condition for four weeks and transferred to the green house. This efficient protocol will be helpful for propagation of woody climber plants belongs to the family Caesalpinaceae and could be used for genetic transformation study.